A note on the Toulmin model (of argumentation) and its application in dissertation projects

A note on the Toulmin model (of argumentation) [information from perplexity.ai]

My question 1: "What is the model of Toulmin argumentation all about?"

The reply: "The Toulmin Model of Argumentation, also known as the Toulmin Method, is a framework for analyzing and creating arguments57. Developed by British philosopher Stephen Toulmin in his book The Uses of Argument, it breaks down arguments into six component parts used to analyze the validity of arguments456. It is especially useful when dealing with complex scenarios where there are no clear truths or absolute solutions to a problem56.

The six components of the Toulmin Model are3:

•  The conclusion of the argument or a statement the speaker wants the audience to believe1. It is an assertion of opinion that the audience should accept, believe, or act on5.
•  The foundation or basis for the claim, providing the evidence and facts that support it15. Grounds can include expert opinions and statistical data5.
•  The reasoning that authorizes the inferential leap from the grounds to the claim1. It links the grounds to the claim and explains how the grounds support the claim6.
•  Support for the warrant1. Backing gives additional support to the claim by addressing questions related to it6.
•  The degree of certainty with which the advocate makes the claim1. It is also known as a qualifier and restricts the claim to specific circumstances7.
•  Exceptions or opposing views to the claim16. A rebuttal acknowledges the opposition and can be used to preempt counterarguments, strengthening the original argument46.

An example of an argument using the Toulmin method is1:

• Claim: The Ravens will win the Super Bowl this year.
• Grounds: They have the best defense in the league.
• Warrant: The team with the best defense usually wins.
• Backing: The team with the best defense has won each of the last five years.
• Modality: The probability that the Jets will win the Super Bowl is 80 percent.
• Rebuttal: Anything could happen. The Ravens defense might have a lot of injuries."

My question 2: "What are strengths and weaknesses of the Toulmin model, with special regard to context of doing dissertation projects?"

The reply: "Strengths of the Toulmin Model

• : The Toulmin Model emphasizes the logical structure of arguments7. It provides a framework for constructing and analyzing arguments by breaking them down into six components7.
• : The Toulmin Model is applicable across disciplines7.
• : The Toulmin Model emphasizes the importance of evidence and reasoning in making a claim7. The model is useful in various fields, including writing, communication, and problem-solving7.
• : The Toulmin model provides a tool for both evaluating and making arguments8. By using the Toulmin's model, strengths and weaknesses of arguments can be identified7. It encourages critical thinking and helps to develop well-supported claims7.
• : The Toulmin model is considered scalable, useful as a heuristic, and can even be taught effectively2. The Toulmin Model of Argumentation has an impact on the argumentative writing skills6.

• : The Toulmin model presents a somewhat idealized view of arguments1. It can be frustrating when dealing with arguments that are messy, vague, or convoluted, as they often are in real life1.
• : Breaking an argument into its constituent parts can take time and effort1. In the heat of an argument, there is seldom the luxury of being able to jot down diagrams, ponder options, and weigh possible responses1.
• : The Toulmin model is somewhat linear and doesn’t account for the give-and-take process of arguing that is more typical in everyday conversations1. Everyday arguments aren’t always as simple as claim-data-warrant1.
• : The Toulmin model has been critiqued for its seeming oversimplification of complex arguments5. Some argue that the Toulmin model limits the arguer's ability to consider the multiple dimensions of an argument5.

The Toulmin Model can be useful in dissertation projects to:

• Analyze arguments in the literature1.
• Outline key arguments on a public policy controversy1.
• Anticipate likely objections and develop effective responses1.
• Write and evaluate arguments2.
• Visually remind writers that claims need support, that support needs to be warranted, and that qualified claims aren't weak3."

My question 3: "What role does backing play in supporting a claim?"

The reply: "In the Toulmin model, backing provides additional support for the warrant, which is the logical link connecting the evidence to the claim15. Backing strengthens the warrant, making the argument more convincing1. It offers further justification, clarification, and examples to reinforce the warrant1.

Backing is crucial when the warrant isn't self-evident or might be met with skepticism1. Critical audiences may question the warrant, prompting the speaker or writer to provide backing in the form of additional evidence1.

Backing can be synonymous with terms like support, justification, and foundation1. It serves as a pillar that upholds the warrant, ensuring the connection between evidence and claim is solid12. Without backing, an argument risks appearing ill-informed and weakening the overall stance2. Using backing strengthens arguments, making them more persuasive and likely to convince the audience23."

Examples: 

Business management-related

1. An example on retailing
2. An example on HRM
3. An example on international business.
4. An example on strategic management.

Accounting and Finance-related

1. An evaluation of an article on its argument: 01.
2. An evaluation of an article on its argument: 02.
3. An evaluation of an article on its argument: 03.

Housing studies-related

1. An evaluation of an article on its argument: 01
2. An evaluation of an article on its argument: 02.
3. An evaluation of an article on its argument: 03.

Reference: a collection of blog notes on using chatgpt for research purpose.